How to Help a Dog Lose Weight?

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: December 31st, 2024

Gryllus M/Shutterstock

Did you know that nearly 60% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese? While it’s tempting to indulge your furry friend with extra treats and meals, excess weight can lead to serious health issues, including joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your dog’s overall well-being. The good news? Helping your dog lose weight doesn’t have to be complicated. With commitment, consistency, and a balanced approach, you can make a big difference in your pet’s health. Here’s what you need to know:

Start with a Vet Visit

Before starting any weight-loss program, consult your veterinarian. Your vet will evaluate your dog’s current health, determine their ideal weight, and rule out any medical conditions that might contribute to weight gain. They can also provide a tailored weight-loss plan suited to your dog’s specific needs, ensuring a safe and effective approach.

Focus on a Healthy Diet

Your dog’s diet is the foundation of any weight-loss plan. As a caring owner, you’re responsible for ensuring they eat properly. Overfeeding and calorie-dense treats are common culprits in weight gain, so it’s essential to make thoughtful choices. Here’s how:

Control Portions: Measure your pet’s food using a scale or a dedicated measuring cup to ensure accurate portions. Base the amount on your dog’s size, age, and activity level, and follow your vet’s recommendations.
Choose High-Quality Food: Opt for nutritionally balanced dog food with lower calorie counts but high levels of protein and fiber. Protein helps maintain muscle mass, while fiber keeps your dog feeling full longer. Look for trusted brands or foods labeled for weight management.
Limit Treats: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Offer healthy alternatives like small pieces of carrots, cucumber, or apple slices (ensure there are no seeds). Choose nutritious dog treats and use them sparingly.

Get Moving

Exercise is vital for burning calories and improving your dog’s overall health. It’s also a great way to bond with your furry friend. Aim for a mix of structured and fun activities:

Daily Walks: Try brisk walks of at least 30 minutes each day, adjusting the duration and intensity based on your dog’s fitness level and age.
Playtime: Engage in games like fetch, tug-of-war, or running around the yard. These activities keep your dog active and entertained.
Indoor Activities: If outdoor time is limited, use puzzle toys or indoor exercise equipment for dogs to stimulate your dog mentally and encourage light movement.
Low-Impact Options: For older dogs or those with joint issues, swimming is an excellent, gentle exercise.

Track Progress

Monitoring your dog’s progress is essential for staying on track. Weigh your dog regularly—use a bathroom scale by weighing yourself with and without your dog, then calculate the difference. Aim for a gradual weight loss of 1-2% of their body weight per week. Keep a journal to record weight changes and note any adjustments to their diet or activity level.

Stay Consistent

Once your dog reaches their ideal weight, the work doesn’t stop. Maintaining their new healthy lifestyle is key to preventing future weight gain. Stick to the portion sizes, continue regular exercise, and monitor their weight periodically. Consistency is the secret to long-term success.

A Healthier, Happier Future

Helping your dog lose weight is one of the best gifts you can give them. It improves their quality of life, reduces the risk of serious health issues, and strengthens the bond you share. Start small: measure your dog’s food for the next meal, add five extra minutes to today’s walk, or swap calorie-dense treats for healthier options. Small, consistent steps lead to lasting change - for both you and your dog.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Do Dogs Need Fiber in Their Diet?

Fiber is an integral part of a balanced diet for your dog, just like it is for humans. It helps ensure their digestive system runs smoothly and can also play an essential role in weight management (or weight loss if that’s what you’re working toward).But how much fiber does a dog actually need, and what is the best way to add fiber to their diet?In this guide, I’ll discuss why fiber is important for your dog's health and well-being, the different types of fiber, and the best options to boost fiber content in their diet. Let’s get started…How Much Fiber Does a Dog Need?While I would love to say the answer to this question is easy, it’s not as simple as giving a specific amount that will work for every dog’s ideal diet. Instead, the amount of fiber needed will vary considerably based on several factors, including your dog’s age, weight, digestive health, or any conditions they currently live with relating to their digestive system.For example, a senior dog usually needs more fiber than a young, healthy adult dog as their bodies in these later years have a more challenging time with different stages of the digestive process. Our golden oldies often suffer from conditions like constipation that, while not life-threatening, do have an impact on their overall quality of life. Making changes to the fiber they are consuming can offer relief.That being said, experts use some general guidelines to create a foundation for these decisions. Depending on who you ask, fiber recommendations for a healthy adult dog range from 1.5% to 4% of a complete diet.How Can Fiber Help My Dog?As already mentioned, fiber can help support a healthy digestive system. But what exactly does this nutrient do to help keep your dog happy and healthy? Let’s look at some of the benefits of fiber for dogs:Encourage Healthy Bowel MovementsIf you have a dog that suffers occasionally (or regularly) from constipation, you may be searching for a solution to help regulate their system, soften waste, and make doing their business easier. After all, no one wants to live with that discomfort, including our dog! Including the right amount of fiber in your dog’s diet can help move waste through the intestines more quickly, softening stool and allowing it to pass on a more frequent schedule.But be careful – too much fiber can also be hazardous. You don’t want your dog to deal with constipation, but diarrhea can also be upsetting and uncomfortable. The goal is to find a happy medium for healthy bowel movements.Prevent Anal Gland ProblemsThe anal glands are an element of a dog’s health that is sometimes overlooked simply because we don’t understand their function or don’t want to discuss that general area. However, ignoring your dog’s anal gland health can lead to severe complications.These little pouches serve an essential role in communication. When your dog does their business, they release a strongly scented fluid that will share key information with other dogs that discover it, including their age, sex, and overall health. However, if that fluid isn’t released with your dog’s bowel movements, it can lead to pain, swelling, infection, and abscesses.One way to promote better anal gland release is to ensure your dog is passing healthy stools, which can be accomplished with the help of fiber.Regulate Blood Sugar Levels If your dog is a diabetic and has been prescribed a medical approach to manage their blood sugar levels, don’t consider this a reliable alternative. However, for healthy dogs, having their blood sugar suddenly spike can actually lead to diabetes and other health problems. Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent these conditions is by keeping their blood sugar balanced and regular. Fiber works by slowing some stages of the digestive process, which also slows the amount of sugar released into your dog’s bloodstream. This isn’t to say it magically eliminates sugars from your dog’s diet, but it spreads out when they are absorbed into the bloodstream, preventing a sudden sugar spike.

New Social Media Network Wants to Help Obese Pets Lose Weight

Pet obesity is on the rise- could social networking be the answer our four-legged besties need? For the last seven years, pet obesity has been on the constant rise. The numbers of overweight pets are growing, and the statistics have everybody worried: furry friends that have a few extra pounds are more likely to be affected by severe diseases and can have a much shorter lifespan. Looking for a sustainable solution for this issue has become a matter of urgency, and a new social network hopes their method will help pet pawrents with obese furballs. Not unlike it is the case with their owners, pets who struggle with excess weight are highly likely to do so because of an unhealthy diet and a predominantly sedentary lifestyle. The pounds tend to come quickly, but when it comes to losing that extra fluff… Your four-legged companion might have a harder time getting back to their optimal weight than you’d expect. CareCorrals, an interactive web tool that acts as a virtual community, hopes to make the process of losing weight easier for your pet by modifying the behavior of the owner; or to be precise, motivating you to change the patterns and habits that might have caused your pet’s obesity or contributed to it. How does that work in practice? Your CareCorral is an online community that is invite-only, which means you’ll be choosing which family members and friends you want to include in your pet’s weight loss journey. The idea is that, essentially, it takes a village to get the best results, but it’s not only about having a supportive community. It’s about having discipline and being accountable, too. Your selected peeps can add stories, pictures, and other memories of your pet to show their support, and get involved in the process by offering help when it’s needed, like taking your pet for a walk or picking up their new kibble. They can do so because they’ll have access to your furbaby’s calendar, where you can log their exercise schedule and meal plan, as well as any other details you want them to see- everything is customizable. CareCorall communities can be adapted to fit any chronic illness, and it’s not only about pets who have obesity issues. This social network of sorts wants to promote connectedness for pet parents and holistic healing for pets who need it through positive lifestyle change.

Could Studying Canines Help People Lose Weight?

According to a new study, the behavior and responses of overweight dogs and humans are strikingly similar, which paves the road for further studies in the field. Both nationally and internationally, obesity is considered to be a major public health crisis. It’s no different when it comes to our pets, either, as statistics indicate that pet obesity is on a steady rise for the last couple of years. But what is the reason behind the consistent weight increase? A recent study reveals that dogs might hold the answers that could help both species lose weight. The saying “like owner, like dog” might be worn out, but it certainly rings true, especially in light of new findings. A team of Hungarian scientists reinforced the idea when they published the results of their study, focused on overweight dogs and their behavior. The team analyzed how fat dogs react in different situations related to food, and quickly realized that their behavior is uncannily similar to that of people who are overweight. In a series of tests, dogs were offered two types of meals: one was high-quality, tasty food, whereas other would either an empty bowl or a portion of less delicious kibble. The handlers instructed their pooches to wait for the second bowl, so they could sniff out all of their options and choose the best one. Contrary to what the scientists thought would happen, chubby pooches started disobeying their owners and just ate whatever came first- they were unwilling to risk it for the potential of a big, yummy meal. The dogs who were within normal weight limits did as they were instructed This type of behavior- preference towards energy-dense foods and unwillingness to invest effort if a reward in food was uncertain- are quite similar to some parallel findings in studies done on overweight humans. While there are, obviously, a lot of factors that make dogs and people different, scientists believe that dogs could prove to be a promising model for studying obesity in humans. Until then, the only way pooches can help us shed a few pounds is with long walks or hikes in nature- so if you need to lose some winter fluff, grab that leash and get going!

5 Simple Ways to Lose Weight With Your Dog

Don’t think of it as a resolution – if you want to drop a few pounds, make it a small goal that you can share with your dog. Here are 5 easy ways to lose weight with your dog. Many pet owners think of their companions as more than just pets – they are members of the family. If this is how you feel about your pet, you probably want to spend as much time with him as you possibly can. Unfortunately, many of the same health problems that threaten to shorten your own lifespan can affect your dog as well – being overweight is one of them. But New Year’s Resolutions are doomed to fail. You put too much pressure on yourself, and if you mess up once, you abandon your best laid plans. Instead, try setting a small goal or two that will bring you closer to your overall goal. And if that goal is to lose weight, we have five easy ways to incorporate your dog into those starting steps. Go for a Walk or Run If you have a dog, you probably already take him for a daily walk, but how long is that walk? If you’re honest with yourself you might admit that you don’t walk your dog as long as you should or that your walking pace is too leisurely to really get much benefit. To get the most benefit out of walking your dog, aim for three 20-minute walks spaced throughout the day and walk at a brisk pace. If you are up to running, you can work with your dog over the course of a few weeks to increase his stamina so the two of you can go running together. Related: Running Buddy Helps You Go Hands-Free on Dog Walk Work in Some Extra Play Time You probably don’t take your cat for daily walks, if you have one, but you can still give him some extra exercise at home. Engaging in active playtime with your cat is good for both of you and it burns calories too! To get your cat moving, try tying a favorite toy to a string or use a laser pointer. It may not be as much exercise for you as for your cat, but taking even a 5- or 10-minute break from sitting can be beneficial for your health. Choose Healthier Treats There is nothing wrong with a little bit of indulgence now and then, but overindulgence can lead to unhealthy weight gain, both for you and for your pet. For your own diet, try to reduce your intake of processed foods and increase your intake of natural foods like fresh fruits and veggies. You may even be surprised to learn that some of the treats that are healthy for you and great for your pet too! Swap some of your dog’s store-bought treats for pieces of carrot, sweet potato, apple, or strawberry. Related: How To Start Running With Your Dog Rack Up Some Shorter Sessions If you work a full-time job and care for a family, finding a spare 30 minutes to walk the dog may be something of a luxury. For both you and your dog’s health, however, you should get as much exercise each day as you can. If this means going for a few 5-minute walks around the block or simply taking the stairs instead of the elevator, do it! For your pet, try putting his food dish and sleeping area (or litter box for a cat) at opposite ends of the house so they have to walk back and forth. Be More Mindful of Portion Sizes Your dog will eat just about anything you put in front of him and you may find that the same is true for you if you sit down with a bag of chips or a box of cookies. One of the easiest ways to lose weight is simply to eat a little less. To control your own portions, never eat from a box or bag – always put your food in a bowl. You might even measure out your portions, if you’re really serious about it. For your pet, re-evaluate how much you’re feeding him and compare it to the feeding recommendations on the package. If he’s gained or lost weight, adjust his portion accordingly.

Spotting Obesity in Dogs: A Guide to the Right Diet Plan

The pet obesity epidemic is rightfully named so – according to Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 60% of cats and 56% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese, and the numbers are only growing each year.

Mars Unveils Results from the World’s Largest Pet Parent Study

There is no arguing that the world of pets is constantly changing and evolving. Once seen as practical tools on farms, while hunting, and in other scenarios, cats and dogs are now considered part of the family. But what exactly does that mean? A new study called the “ Mars Global Pet Parent Study” focused on answering precisely that question. Collecting opinions and insights from over 20,000 cat and dog parents across 20 countries, making it the world’s largest pet parent study. The company has compiled, analyzed, and shared the results for everyone to see – and the findings are fascinating! There is no doubt that pets hold a place of importance in our world today. In fact, 37% of those surveyed considered their pets the most important thing in their lives. The survey found that 56% of people owned either a cat or dog, and 47% of those are first-time owners. Why do we view our pets so highly? Many answers were given for why our pets play such special roles in our lives. Of the dog owners who participated, 50% said they appreciated the unconditional love of their canine companions most, while 49% answered family completeness. Cat owners appreciated the entertainment (48%) and stress relief (44%) of their feline friends. These relationships include pets of all ages. The study revealed Baby Boomers were more likely to share their heart and home with pets over 7 years old. Meanwhile, Generation Z and Millennials statistically had younger pets. Of the pet parents in these age groups that were surveyed, 70% were puppy owners, and 72% were kitten owners. At the time of this survey, these age groups span ages 12 to 43, meaning many are just starting their journey as pet parents by adopting their first pet (not including family pets throughout their childhood). As far as breeds, you may be surprised by the results! The most common dog breed globally was the Labrador (6%), followed by the Chihuahua (6%) and Golden Retriever (5%). As for the cats, the most popular breed was the Persian (16%), followed by the British Shorthair (11%) and the Siamese (9%). Of course, pet parenthood isn’t all sunshine and rainbows! There are some struggles and challenges we all face along the way. 32% of those surveyed reported feeling guilty about leaving their dogs and cats alone at home. This supports a 2023 study that found both pets and owners experience separation anxiety. As we continue to prioritize pets, will we see further changes in our society? The results of this survey indicate that pet parents strongly desire a more pet-friendly world at home and during their travels. Only 42% of respondents shared that they feel their neighborhoods are very pet-friendly. Meanwhile, 25% of dog owners and 27% of cat owners revealed that they find traveling with their pets demanding or challenging. What does all this mean for the pet industry? For companies like Mars, this is a call to continue growing, innovating, and adapting. As our relationships with our pet parents continue to grow stronger than ever, we are searching for products that support this newfound relationship. “Almost half (47%) of those surveyed are first-time owners, signaling a new era of pet parents,” explained Ikdeep Singh, Global President of Mars Pet Nutrition. “We know that pet parents are evolving, and we need to evolve with them, which means embedding pet parent centricity into our DNA to transform the experience and build lifelong relationships with the 455 million pets and pet parents we reach.” We’re excited to see what new products this information will inspire! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Because You Want Only Premium Stocking Stuffers for the Fur Kids

(photo credit: AnEduard / shutterstock.com)There are loads of ways you can celebrate the holidays with your fur kid this year but nothing quite beats the “morning of”. That’s when ribbons and tissue wrap fly and the kids are squealing with joy as they open their gifts and gorge on treats versus breakfast. If your household includes a furry critter or two, you’ve no doubt noticed how they like to be in on the action. They gather close to observe and always find a way to inject themselves into this high-energy spectacle. Am I right?So, why not take it to the next level for them? Have them join in the excitement with their own gifts. And when I say gifts, I mean crazy fun stocking stuffers that will keep them entertained for the rest of the day. Or at least until the turkey comes out of the oven.Now, I’m not talking about those pre-packaged plastic options stuffed with random toys and stale treats. You can do better than that for your little buddies and this is exactly why we’ve assembled a list of uniquely special goodies that will have your pet counting the sleeps before Christmas.

Puppy Blues is a Real Thing – Just Like Baby Blues, Study Shows

There is no doubt that puppies are super cute. When you first bring a tiny little bundle of fur into your home, it is a cause of great joy. But sometimes, life can change in many ways as you care for your new pet. A latest scientific study published in Mental Health Research reveals that almost half of all dog owners can experience something reminiscent of the famous “baby blues” – only related to puppies instead of babies.Many owners will experience anxiety, frustration, or weariness during those first steps of their pet’s puppyhood. The study that was conducted at the University of Helsinki confirmed that owners will experience a short-term drop in mood, and great melancholy, while their pet is a puppy - something that is akin to the famous postnatal “baby blues”. This is because caring for a puppy gives rise to a variety of worries and fears, anxiety and frustration, and difficulty bonding."The study found that these so-called 'puppy blues' manifest in three ways: anxiety, frustration, and weariness. These often occur concurrently, but in some cases, one or two of the three may be particularly prominent," said psychologist and doctoral researcher Aada Ståhl.When a puppy owner is anxious, their thoughts “are colored by concerns” about the wellbeing of their pet, and how they are developing. They can also be worried that they are not adequately looking after the fragile little being. If something doesn’t pan out, the owner would often blame themselves for it. What is more, as a result of the strain and the challenges of caring for a puppy, a puppy owner might become frustrated even further. In the initial stages, they might discover that it is difficult to build an emotional bond with the puppy, which would only make everything much more difficult.All of this makes puppyhood exhausting and very taxing mentally and physically. Owners could experience a lack of sleep and increased tiredness and anxiety."Just under half of owners report having had significant negative experiences during their dog's puppyhood phase, with only about a tenth reporting the most severe levels of strain. This is in line with the prevalence of postnatal depression. However, the negative feelings fade relatively quickly," says Professor Hannes Lohi.But the study now offers a key insight – the more time that passed since puppyhood, the more positively owners remembered it. This means that the negative emotional content of these memories “fades” as time passes. All these results were collected by examining the experiences of over 100 different dog owners, all of whom experienced emotional strain after bringing a puppy home. The survey was specifically developed to measure “puppy blues”. It collected specific responses from over 2,000 dog owners, ensuring the reliability of the survey."Capturing the phenomenon in a measurable form is important if we are to better understand its characteristics, prevalence, and duration. This will also allow us to improve understanding of the factors that may predispose owners to or protect them from the 'puppy blues,' which will help us to develop prevention and support measures," added Ståhl.The study offers a crucial new glimpse into the relationship between a pet and an owner. Exploring the puppy blues phenomenon will help raise awareness and prepare future owners for the challenges of puppyhood – as there are quite a few that come together with all that cuteness.

Is a Ferret the Right Pet For Me?

Ferrets are well-known for their playful personalities and mischievous antics – and who can resist their adorable faces? As a result, they have become an increasingly popular choice for pets. However, before you invite one of these energetic critters into your home, it’s essential to understand their unique needs! In this guide, I’ll explore the pros and cons of ferret ownership, including questions to ask yourself to determine if a ferret is the right pet for you. Plus, if you’re ready to move forward with your new pet, we’ll help you identify what to look for in a healthy ferret and the steps to take to prepare your home for your new furry friend’s arrival. Ferret Basics: Things You Should Know Before Getting a Ferret Before researching where to find your new friend, let’s step back and start with the basics. What will your new ferret require for a happy, healthy life? Are you prepared to meet those needs? Determining this should be the first step when considering any new pet, regardless of the pet you plan to adopt. Yes, even dogs and cats! Temperament Ferrets are social animals and require regular interaction with others. They are happiest when living in pairs or small groups for constant companionship. This also means they aren’t the type of pet that can be left to fend for themselves without regular quality time with their person or people. They can be startled easily and have sharp teeth that hurt considerably if they bite. This most commonly happens if they are surprised, startled, or handled incorrectly. For this reason, they may not be the best fit for homes with young children unless careful boundaries are established. Daily RoutineExperts recommend that ferrets be given at least 4 hours of active time outside their cage or habitat daily, six to eight hours when they are young. Failing to meet those needs can lead to boredom and a wide range of behavioral problems. When you start handling and playing with your ferret, you may notice they are naturally mouthy. To train your new ferret to play safely with people, avoid using your hands as a “toy.” Instead, use fun and ferret-safe toys like rubber balls, ropes, chew toys, or interactive cat toys. Avoid anything too small that they could swallow, as it could cause a life-threatening obstruction. Grooming While these adorable creatures are naturally clean, they have a distinct odor often described as musky. This scent is even stronger in unneutered ferrets. You can bathe your ferret regularly, but the smell will never disappear entirely. That being said, avoid the temptation to over-bathe your ferret. They should be bathed at most once or twice a month. Bathing them too often will strip their skin and coat of the protective natural oils, causing skin irritation or even making the smell worse! Diet Ferrets are carnivores requiring a high-protein, low-fiber, meat-based diet. This can be accomplished by feeding a commercially prepared ferret food or preparing a homemade diet. The amount they need to eat and the nutrients required to ensure their diet is balanced correctly will depend on their age, weight, lifestyle, and any underlying health concerns. Some foods that can be included in their meals include eggs, high-protein baby foods, kitten foods, turkey necks, game birds, or minced meat. Health and Veterinary CareLike other traditional companion animals, ferrets require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure no cause for concern. Finding a vet may be a little more challenging as there are fewer vets experienced with ferret care. These little critters are prone to several health problems like lymphoma, adrenal gland disease, respiratory problems, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. Staying on top of their vet care will help prevent issues and identify problems early when they are easier to address.Ideal Environment When creating the ideal habitat for your ferret, one of the biggest things to consider is the available space in your home. A ferret’s cage should be at least 18 inches by 18 inches by 30 inches, with a minimum of two levels and stairs or ramps to move between them. This means you must find space in your home for a cage of this size. This cage should include many enrichment opportunities, like toys, tubes, hammocks, and hiding spaces. In addition to setting up a cage with all the necessities, they will also need time to play and explore outside their cage. This means you will need to have a ferret-proofed area of the home where they can move about safely. They are masters of climbing and slipping through small spaces, which can make the process of ferret-proofing or keeping them contained in one area of the home challenging. Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Ferret Do you have enough space to accommodate your ferret’s habitat and the ability to ferret-proof an area of your home (they are escape artists)? Are you prepared for the high cost of veterinary care if your ferret encounters a medical emergency or any of the common health conditions listed above?Can you dedicate at least 4 hours per day to playtime and social interaction? Are ferrets legal to keep as pets in my area? Have you found a vet near you with experience in ferret care?Will you be comfortable with the strong, musky ferret odor (Yes, it will be in your home)?Do you have a young child in the home? If so, you may be better served by adopting a pet your child can handle and interact with safely.

Colorado Cat Gets Stuck in Dumpster, Requiring Elaborate Rescue

A tiny Colorado kitty recently found itself in a precarious predicament, requiring the help of local rescuers and first responders. On Friday, November 15th, in Fort Collins, Colorado, a good Samaritan contacted the Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) about a young kitten who needed assistance. It appeared the kitten had been trying to escape a dumpster through a small opening at the base. Unfortunately, their escape plan didn’t go according to plan, and the kitty’s head was caught. Responding to the call, firefighters assessed the situation and quickly learned this was a much more challenging rescue. Unable to safely navigate the kitten’s head back through the small hole, they recognized that heavy equipment was needed. Of course, as any cat parent can tell you, the sound and vibrations these tools would create while cutting through the dumpster would be terrifying for the trapped victim. “The strong material of the dumpster and tight fit required extremely precise tools often used in vehicle extractions,” the PFA explained in a Facebook post following the rescue. They contacted Dr. Amanda Cavanagh, an emergency veterinarian from Colorado State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. As the head of the hospital’s urgent care service, she was used to dealing with emergencies – but this situation was undoubtedly one-of-a-kind. She gave a sedative to calm the frightened kitten and keep them calm throughout the extraction. She then continued to monitor the kitten’s health while the PFA got to work. The crews got to work meticulously cutting away pieces of the dumpster until the hole was large enough for the cat to slip through to safety. After the successful rescue, the kitten left with NCO Humane in Loveland, where they would recover and receive any necessary veterinary care before starting the search for a loving forever home. While no further updates are available at this time, you can follow the NCO Humane on Facebook. If you want more details about the kitten and their potential to be adopted, contact NCO Humane. The adoption status of the kitten is unknown, but even if they have already found their forever home, there are many other incredible cats in their care.

How to Safely Trim Black Dog Nails

Trimming your dog’s nails is a routine task that many dog parents handle with confidence. However, when your pup has a coat of jet-black fur, this simple task can become considerably more challenging. Unlike dogs with lighter-colored nails, where the quick (the sensitive part of the nail containing blood vessels and nerves) is easily visible, black nails can make it difficult to see where to safely trim. This can lead to anxiety for both you and your best friend. But fear not! With a little patience and the right techniques, you can safely and effectively trim your black dog’s nails, ensuring their comfort and well-being. Get started with this key grooming technique today! Why is Cutting Your Dog’s Nails So Important? Before we focus on the specifics of cutting black dog nails, let’s start with the basics. Why is keeping your dog’s nails trimmed and cared for so important? We often discuss the importance of grooming for dogs, including brushing your dog’s coat, haircuts for some breeds, dental care to prevent plaque build-up, and more. But caring for their nails is another aspect of your dog’s routine maintenance for their overall health and comfort. Overgrown nails can cause pain when walking or running. As your dog places their paw down on the ground, if the nail makes contact, this can push back on the paw causing discomfort or forcing your dog to alter their gait or posture to compensate. Over time, this can lead to more severe problems like long-term joint issues. Long nails can also reduce traction, causing your dog to slip and fall. This can have significant implications for senior dogs or those recovering from surgery or an injury that affects their mobility. In addition to your dog’s health, nail care is essential for a harmonious home. Longer, untrimmed nails can damage your floors, furniture, and other belongings. Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed back makes it possible for everyone to live together happily without getting hit with unnecessary damage and repair costs. How Do You Know Where the Quick is On Black Dog Nails? Knowing the location of the quick when trimming your dog’s nails is essential, regardless of their coat color. But why? What is the quick, and what are the risks if you don’t pay attention to it? As mentioned above, the quick is the sensitive area within the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. This area is concealed within the nail and protected from harm or damage. However, when trimming the nails, you risk cutting the nail back too far and cutting into the quick. This can cause pain, bleeding, and unnecessary distress for your dog. It’s relatively easy to spot the quick on dogs with lighter-colored nails, as it can be seen through the nail as a pink or reddish spot. However, black nails present a unique challenge. The dark pigmentation of the nail makes it difficult or impossible to see the quick inside. Luckily, there are several techniques you can use to safely navigate this. One of the easiest and most effective options is to use a light source like a flashlight or phone light to shine a light through the nail. The quick will be identifiable as it will appear as a darker shadow within the nail. Other options include:Feeling for the groove or indent in the underside of the nail, as the quick will start just above this areaTrimming small amounts at a time while monitoring the appearance changes at the end of the nailUsing alternatives to nail trimming, like nail grinders and filing boardsIs it Better to Cut or Grind Black Dog Nails? The decision between cutting or grinding your dog’s nails is one that many pet parents debate. The truth is that there is no one correct answer. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on several factors. However, it often comes down to personal preferences and your dog’s comfort level. Cutting a black dog’s nails with clippers is the quickest method. This is an easy solution for dogs who are already used to having their paws handled. However, if they are afraid of nail trims, even the site of the clippers can trigger anxiety. Knowing where to cut will require a keen eye and focus. You need to identify the location of the quick and take as much excess nail off as possible while avoiding harming this delicate area. This can be challenging if your dog keeps trying to pull their paw away, even more so if they have black nails concealing the quick. A slight miscalculation could cause pain and bleeding, putting your pup at risk of infection. Grinding your dog’s nails with a Dremel-like tool is a safe alternative for many pet owners. This uses an electrical file to slowly grind down small amounts of the nail. While this makes it possible to control the amount of the nail being removed better, protecting the quick, the noise and vibration of a grinder can be scary for some dogs. Ultimately, the best method for maintaining your black dog’s nails is the one that you and your dog are most comfortable with.

Marley the Tuxedo Wins UK's National Cat of the Year Award

Bringing comfort and support to women in a London safe-house, this feline takes top prize.

New York State Bans Sale of Dogs, Cats, and Rabbits

Starting on December 15, 2024, retail pet stores will no longer be able to sell dogs, cats, and rabbits in the state of New York. Any stores that continue to sell the animals will be doing so illegally, and will be charged a penalty of up to $1,000 for each violation.

Hard-Surface Flooring a No-Go for Your Dog? We Have Solutions!

(photo credit: Christine Bird/shutterstock.com)For some strange reason, the most recent addition to my pack of three refuses to walk on hard-surface flooring. When she’s out for her daily constitutional or is touring the dog park, she’s fine. Running and exploring appears to be her outdoor passion. But move inside, and any floor surface not covered by a rug or runner is like molten lava that sees her crouching low, visibly psyching herself up to make a move, and then launching herself from carpet to carpet.Yes, I do indulge her and in addition to carrying her for some of the longer stretches (she’ll stay on one mat for hours on end), I’ve allowed my main floor living space to resemble a flight path with a string of strategically placed mats and dog beds providing safe haven and appropriate landing spots. Did I mention, that these run all the way from the sofa to the back door?Now, I know this isn’t unique to my dog and it’s not as rare and quirky as I first thought. It seems there can be several reasons my Miniature Schnauzer prefers to avoid hard surface flooring and the most common causes could be:Medical issues including loss of vision, hip dysplasia or arthritis make gripping a hard, slippery surface feel treacherous. Not the case with my dog.A previous slip and fall that has a pet overly cautious. Again, not in my experience with her.A simple lack of traction may cause them to shy away from tile or hardwood. A distinct possibility with my pooch.Now, if you suspect a traction issue and notice your dog’s feet splay out in every direction when he crosses the floor, he may need foot grooming to remove excess fur between his pads. While I believe a full groom is always best left to the professionals, a quick tidy-up of feet and paws is certainly something we novices can undertake.

Presidential Candidates Don't Have Pets... But Their Running Mates Do!

Let's learn a little more about the four-legged campaigners vying to be 2nd dog.

How Do I Get Cat Odor Out of the Carpet?

Cats are incredible companions and loving family members, but bringing a feline friend into your home can sometimes come with some unpleasant and unwanted odors. If you’ve ever dealt with the scent of cat urine or other feline-related odors in your carpet, you know how frustrating it can be.Fortunately, there are many effective methods to eliminate these odors and leave your carpet smelling clean and fresh, including both commercial cleaning products and DIY solutions.In this post, I will share techniques and tips to help you banish cat odor from your carpet once and for all, whether fresh or dried. Plus, I’ll address cleaning methods for other surfaces in your home that may be hanging onto odors, like blankets, clothing, and hard surfaces.Being a cat parent doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a clean home!Why Does Cat Urine Smell So Bad?If you have ever shared a space with a cat, you know cat urine has a distinct smell. This means not only bathroom accidents but even the scent of the urine in their litterbox. What gives it such a pungent odor? There are several reasons why this happens.Cats are believed to have evolved from desert animals, meaning their bodies have adapted to survive in hot climates with limited hydration. Their bodies are more effective at absorbing and retaining water to lower the risk of dehydration. As a result, their urine is much more concentrated than, for example, our urine. This makes the odor more prominent.As the urine sits, whether in a litter box or on your carpet, bacteria break down the urea in the urine. This process releases smelly gases that carry the characteristic ammonia smell. The longer the urine sits, the more it will break down and the more pungent that smell will become.Factors that Could Make Your Cat’s Urine Smell WorseWhile cat urine is known to have an unpleasant ammonia smell, there are factors that could make that smell less noticeable (or even worse). This doesn’t eliminate the risk of cat odor in your carpets, but it is an important consideration when trying to limit the smells in your home. If you have noticed your cat’s pee has a stronger or more unpleasant smell than usual, here are a few things you should consider:Urine ConcentrationWe mentioned that cat urine is more concentrated, but this doesn’t mean it can’t become even stronger and more intense in some cases. This is usually the result of severe dehydration (your cat isn’t drinking enough water) or kidney disease and complications that impact your cat’s ability to process or absorb water. Consider it a red flag if you notice the smell from your cat’s litter box is stronger than usual.Feline DiabetesIf your cat suffers from feline diabetes, their body fails to process and regulate sugar levels properly. This can make their urine smell sweeter or give it a fruity scent. On one hand, this may seem more pleasant as the smell is less troublesome than the typical ammonia smell. But it is a sign of health complications that should be addressed for your cat’s health and well-being.Urinary Tract Infection Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in cats, especially as they age. If your cat suffers from a UTI, their urine may have a more pungent or fishy odor. UTIs also impact your cat’s ability to pee normally, which can lead to more accidents outside of the box. The good news is that these infections are usually easy to treat. With antibiotics, most cats recover in 7 to 10 days. However, you need to contact your veterinarian to start the treatment process.DietYour cat's food can directly impact their waste, changing the smell of your cat’s urine. For example, you may notice a stronger ammonia smell if they eat a high-protein diet. If you recently noticed a change in the scent of your cat’s urine, take a moment to reconsider what they have been eating lately (including both food and treats), and you may identify the cause.Medical ConcernsThere are several illnesses and diseases that could change the way your cat’s urine smells. It could be because the illness impacts their kidney function or changes the chemical composition of their urine. The only way to rule out medical explanations is by making an appointment with your veterinarian.

12-Year-Old Rescue Cat’s Reaction to First Toy Melts Hearts

It’s a heartwarming tale of second chances that will tug at the heartstrings of cat lovers everywhere. From sharing the story of a senior cat finding the love he deserves to revealing his “inner kitten” in an adorable video – The story of “Loaf” will surely bring a smile to your face. As a golden oldie, Loaf appears to have had a rough start to life. The 12-year-old cat was discovered recently by Maria Torres, from Miami, during a mother/daughter beach trip. The two spotted the black cat peaking out from the mangroves, and it was clear that he needed help. A rescue owner herself (Torres runs Love N Light Furever Rescue in South Florida), she knew she couldn’t leave the sweet senior behind to fend for himself. The two took Loaf home to better assess his condition and help him live out the rest of his senior years with the love and care every cat should receive. After addressing his immediate needs, they decided to give the senior cat a little something special to call his own – a catnip-filled rainbow toy, recording his first reaction. But they never could have imagined how it was going to go. “To give him his first toy was pretty extraordinary and kind of scary because I didn’t know how he was going to feel about it,” Torres explained. “The truth is, a cat who lived on the streets for 12 years sometimes doesn’t even recognize toys, so I was actually pretty shocked that he took a liking to it right away.” Torres shared the video on TikTok, and it wasn’t long before the heartwarming comments started to roll in.

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